What’s the one thing women should know before turning 40? 8 women weigh in.

Thanks to our brand partner, Caltrate

I used to think 40 was the age of proper adults. Like, when I was 40, I would finally feel like all those real adults. The ones who wear beige slacks, have a budget that includes investment-y thingamabobs and don't find an ill-timed, loud and public fart hilarious.

So, I'm 42 next week. And until recently, I still felt the same way I did 20 years ago. I have the same style and laugh at the same jokes. I'm moderately more financially literate… I guess. But other than that, my 40s felt like the new 20s.

Image: Supplied.

Until they didn't.

You see, suddenly, to misquote Taylor, "I'm feeling 42".

And to be honest, I feel like a bit of a heads-up from my more senior sisters would have been handy.

So, if you find yourself on the cusp of your fourth decade, consider this your birthday present from those who've gone before you as they share the one thing they reckon you should know before turning 40.

I'll go first.

Getting up off the floor will get… noisy. Now, this one happens overnight. One day you're able to effortlessly transition from sitting to standing like it's no big deal — the next, it's you and your flailing limbs against gravity.

Until one day in the not-too-distant future, you'll go to sit on the ground and, much like a toddler who learns not to touch the stove, you'll back away.

But I've only just realised that this doesn't have to be my fate. We have options, people. Help is out there.

Obviously, there's all the stuff you already know about — daily walking, strength training, yoga. But there are also supplements, like Caltrate Joint Health.

Caltrate Joint Health offers a triple benefit in one mini tablet: supporting joint health, mobility and healthy cartilage recovery. It's a simple addition to your routine — worthy of a standing ovation (even if you're taking your time getting up).

Its key ingredient, UC-II® Collagen (a form of undenatured type II collagen), is produced through a patented process that works with the body's natural processes to improve joint function and reduce mild joint discomfort.

After regular use for 90 days, 90 per cent of users reported a reduction in mild joint discomfort. It also contains vitamin C, which supports collagen formation and manganese to help maintain healthy connective tissue.

So that's my two cents. Now let's hear what the others had to say…

"You need to know that 40 doesn't mean the end. You can learn something new. Do something new. I thought when I got my motorcycle licence at 30 that I was too old to be doing that. But I wasn't. And I'm still not, 11 years later. I feel the same as I did in my 20s — but free. It's great!" — Nicole, 41.

"You really get that Dr Seuss saying in your 40s. You know the one we tell kids, that 'those who matter don't mind and those who mind don't matter'. Yeah, that's legit. But when you're young and you should follow it, you don't believe it. You can't quite get it until you're in your 40s." — Rachel, 44.

"I'm turning 81 this year, which is definitely considered an 'old' age. But I don't feel old. So, I suppose just don't pay attention to the numbers and get stuck in a story about being too old for this and that." — Kay, 80.

80 and still playing cricket with my grandchildren. Image: Supplied.

"It amazes me how much I've been able to increase my salary in my 40s, even though I did put my career on hold to raise my family. You know what — if you've managed to run a house, raise kids, be on said kid's sports committee, negotiate custody — you have an array of transferable skills that make you highly employable." — Majella, 45.

"If you are through the raising small children part of life, that means you live with humans who can help you around the house. Don't fall into the trap of giving to others just because that's what's expected. Step down so they can step up and you can get yourself back." — Amrita, 61.

"I wish I knew that life after 40 is the same but better! The wisdom of the last 20 years of adult life seems to find its perfect place in your head. And that, if you let it, gratitude will open your eyes to the joy in every moment." — Nikki, 43.

Image: Supplied.

"I think learning how to own the mistakes you make and learn from them is important before you turn 40. Mistakes equal growth. They're also life-long." — Deanna, 46.

"All your favourites. Your favourite food, movie, coffee shop. Not just what your kids like. Take some time to figure out what it is you enjoy." — Kelly, 44.

Shop Caltrate Joint Health to support your overall joint health in one daily tablet.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

90 per cent of users reported a reduction in mild joint discomfort after taking Caltrate Joint Health for 90 days, according to Caltrate Joint Health Real World Study, 2023. IQVIA. Commissioned by Haleon. For information call 1800 028 533.

Feature Image: Canva/Supplied/Mamamia.

Now there is an easy way to support your overall joint health in one mini tablet per day! Caltrate Joint Health is scientifically designed with high quality ingredients, including UC-II® Collagen which helps enhance healthy joint function, to help keep you moving. Available from leading supermarkets and pharmacies nationally. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.